Perceptual Motor Program (PMP)
At Carina State School, our Perceptual Motor Program (PMP) is a vital part of our Prep year, designed to support the physical and cognitive development that underpins successful learning.
Through carefully structured activities, our Prep students build essential fine and gross motor skills—such as balance, coordination, body awareness, and spatial understanding. These skills are not only important for physical development, but also form the foundation for classroom tasks like sitting still, writing, concentrating and following directions.
Our weekly PMP sessions are fun, active and targeted. Students move through a range of engaging stations that help strengthen their core muscles, improve coordination and develop their ability to listen, plan and respond—all in a supportive and encouraging environment.
By investing in these early motor skills, we set our students up for success across all areas of their learning journey. It's just one more way we ensure a strong start for every child at Carina State School.
A day in the life of a Prep student
A typical day in Prep includes:
- Warm and welcoming morning routines
- Structured synthetic phonics lessons
- Focused literacy and numeracy learning blocks
- Indoor and outdoor play-based investigations
- Creative arts, music, and physical activity
- Storytime, reflection, and quiet time
- Opportunities for student voice and choice in learning
Our flexible, child-centred approach supports smooth transitions and helps children build confidence in their new environment.
Supporting families and students with the transition to school
We know starting school is a journey for the whole family. At Carina State School, we work in partnership with parents and carers to ensure a positive start to school life.
Prep information evening – Meet with our Principal, Deputy Principal and Prep staff and learn about the Prep program at Carina.
Prep transition program – Our tailored transition sessions help children become familiar with the school, classroom routines and teachers before the first day of school.
Playgroup – Run by parent volunteers in association with Play Matters, Carina State School Playgroup meets every Tuesday morning from 9:00-10:45am in the Prep playground. This helps parents and children familiarise themselves with the Prep space before starting school and provides opportunities for families to meet and build friendships within our school community.
Partnering with local kindergartens – We build strong partnerships with our local Kindy providers to support a smooth Prep transition.
Community involvement – Families are warmly welcomed to be part of school events, learning experiences and celebrations throughout the year.
Enrolment informationWe welcome enroments for Prep throughout the year. Children must turn 5 years old by June 30 of the year they start school.
To learn more about our Prep program or to arrange a school tour, please contact us at:
📞 (07) 3900 9666
📧 admin@carinass.eq.edu.au